Model:
Comet Riding Mower Tractor
Product Code:
265X, 265XS, 306X, 306XS, 307X, 307XS, 417X, 417XS, 418X, 418XS
Product Category:
Residential and light-duty commercial lawn tractors
Competitors:
Competes with models from John Deere, Cub Cadet, Toro, Husqvarna in the entry-level to mid-range riding mower segment.
Durability And Reliability:
Snapper's reputation for robust construction and dependable performance in its class.
Ease Of Use:
Designed for user-friendly operation, including comfortable seating, intuitive controls, and accessible maintenance points.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Powertrain, Chassis, Electrical, Hydraulics, Steering, Braking, Cutting Deck, Attachments
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 200-300 pages (typical for comprehensive service and parts manuals)
Manual Type:
Service and Parts Manual
Engine System:
Detailed troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair procedures for engine components (carburetor, ignition, cooling, lubrication), adjustments, and specifications.
Powertrain System:
Transmission diagnostics, maintenance, and repair for hydrostatic and gear drive systems. Includes clutch, drive belts, differentials, and axle repairs.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, repair, welding procedures, axle alignment, and related chassis components.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for starting and charging systems, lighting, PTO engagement, and accessory circuits. Includes component testing.
Hydraulic System:
Procedures for maintaining and repairing hydraulic lift systems, fluid specifications, pump and cylinder diagnostics, and seal replacement.
Steering And Braking:
Diagnosis and repair of steering mechanisms (linkage, gears), brake system components (pads, drums, cables), and adjustments.
Cutting Deck And Attachments:
Maintenance, repair, and adjustment procedures for mower decks, blade replacement, spindle service, belt tensioning, and installation/removal of common attachments (mulch kits, baggers).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, greasing points, tire pressure checks, blade sharpening/replacement, belt inspection and tensioning, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic charts and flowcharts for common problems encountered with engine starting, power loss, transmission issues, electrical faults, and hydraulic system failures.
Component Disassembly And Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing, servicing, and reinstalling major components such as the engine, transmission, steering assembly, brake system, and mower deck.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Procedures for carburetor adjustment, ignition timing verification, PTO clutch adjustment, brake pedal free play, and steering alignment.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive coverage from basic user-level maintenance to advanced engine and powertrain rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.
Engine Manufacturer:
Briggs & Stratton / Kawasaki (model dependent)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-cycle, V-twin (common for models like 417/418), single-cylinder (for smaller models).
Engine Displacement:
Varies by model, typically ranging from 14.5 to 20 HP (e.g., 17 HP for 417, 18 HP for 418).
Horsepower Range:
14.5 HP - 20 HP
Torque Curve:
Designed for consistent torque delivery across the operating RPM range for cutting thick grass.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Typically 2.5 - 3.5 gallons (model dependent)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 48-50 inches (model dependent)
Overall Length:
Approximately 70-75 inches (model dependent)
Overall Width:
Approximately 40-50 inches (excluding deck)
Tire Size Front:
Typically 13x5.00-6
Tire Size Rear:
Typically 18x8.50-8 or 20x8.00-8
Shipping Weight:
Approximately 450-600 lbs (model dependent)
Operating Weight:
Excluding attachments, likely higher than shipping weight.
Rollover Protection:
ROPS (Roll Over Protection System) not standard on most residential models of this era; consult specific model documentation. Operator Presence Control (OPC) is standard.
Operator Presence Control:
Engine stops if operator leaves seat or releases brake pedal.
Parking Brake:
Mechanical brake engaging rear wheels.
Seat Belt:
N/A (not typically equipped on this class of mower).
Pto Safety Switch:
Blade engagement system is interlocked with safety switches.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 50 operating hours or annually. Check manual for specific oil type and capacity.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 25 hours, replace annually or more often in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Annually or as needed.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Annually.
Deck Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 25 hours for wear and tension.
Greasing Points:
Check and lubricate front axle pivots, steering linkage, and other fittings every 25 hours or as specified.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 30 or SAE 10W-30 (API Service SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM or higher) depending on ambient temperature. Refer to manual for precise recommendations and part numbers.
Hydrostatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific hydrostatic fluid (e.g., Tuff Torq 'Fluid TT', or equivalent SAE 10W-30 API SL or higher). Consult manual for exact type and capacity.
Hydraulic Fluid:
ISO VG 32 or 46 hydraulic fluid, or specific lawn tractor hydraulic fluid.
Deck Leveling:
Deck deck leveling can drift over time, requiring periodic adjustment for an even cut.
Hydrostatic Transmission Wear:
Over time, especially with heavy use or improper maintenance, hydrostatic transmissions can develop wear leading to reduced power or inconsistent operation. Fluid changes are critical.
Belt Tensioner Failure:
The belt tensioner for the mower deck or drive system can wear out, leading to slipping belts and loss of power.
Carburetor Gumming:
Engines may experience starting issues or rough running due to fuel varnish or debris in the carburetor, especially after long storage periods without fuel stabilizer.
Brand Identity:
Snapper is a well-established brand in the outdoor power equipment market, known for durability and innovation, particularly with its rear-engine riders and zero-turn mowers. Owned by Briggs & Stratton.
Comet Series:
The Comet series represents Snapper's line of robust, reliable riding mowers designed for homeowners who need more than a push mower but less than a heavy-duty garden tractor. Models like the 300, 400 series are iterations within this lineup, often seeing incremental updates in engine options, deck sizes, and styling over different production years.
Production Period:
These models likely span production years from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s, a period where hydrostatic transmissions became more prevalent and engine power increased.
